Amid the overall slowdown, several industries report relatively strong IT hiring and technology investments. The federal government's economic stimulus package is expected to further boost IT spending in some sectors.

In healthcare, for example, U.S. stimulus funding is anticipated to accelerate the adoption of electronic medical records. This should spur IT opportunities as physicians and hospitals automate their record-keeping systems. Stimulus funding may also boost IT hiring in government and education, as well as energy- and infrastructure-related businesses.

According to the Robert Half Technology IT Hiring Index and Skills Report, CIOs in the wholesale industry anticipate some of the most active hiring in the United States in the first quarter of 2010. Technology executives in the retail sector also forecast employment growth above the national average.

Here are four industries in which IT growth is expected to continue in several markets:

Healthcare: An aging population, the need for constant technology upgrades and government funding should result in continuing rapid growth for IT in healthcare and related industries.

Government: U.S. stimulus funding is likely to fuel IT hiring both within government agencies and in firms that rely on government contracts.

Financial services: Technology investments and hiring may increase as firms strive to meet reform and compliance requirements. Continuing uncertainty may encourage organizations to consider contract and project professionals.

Education: Technology investments and hiring should remain strong thanks to stimulus funding, rising student enrollments at all levels and the growth of e-learning.